Police in Łosice County uncovered a balloon‑based cigarette smuggling attempt across the eastern border on December 2.
Balloon smuggling attempt foiled
Police from Łosice County intervened after noticing a strange balloon in the eastern border area. The balloon was used to transport a cardboard box of unbranded cigarettes.
Discovery near agricultural buildings
On the night of 2 December, the on‑duty commander at the Łosice police station received a report of a meteorological balloon possibly falling in a local settlement. Officers found a package wrapped in white foil, attached to balloon remnants, near farm structures.
Quantity of cigarettes seized
The police inspected the package and found 30,000 cigarettes (1,500 cartons) without Polish excise marks.
Public safety instructions
Residents who encounter suspicious objects that may contain contraband should avoid approaching, call emergency services, and wait for the police to arrive.
Local police statement
The Łosice Police Department (KPP Łosice) warned that smugglers use balloons to transport excise‑taxed goods and urged vigilance.